Chapter 15:

autocratic- pertaining to or of the nature of autocracy or of an autocrat; absolute

stratagems- a plan, scheme, or trick for surprising or decieving and enemy.

hectored- to be a bully or to torment

bout- a contest or trial of strength

anew- to do something over and over again

synapses- a region where nerve impulses are transmitted and received, encompassing the axon terminal of a neuron that releases neurotransmitters in response to an impulse, an extremely small gap across which the neurotransmitters travel, and the adjacent membrane of an axon, dendrite, or muscle or gland cell with the appropriate receptor molecules for picking up the neurotransmitters.

serac- a large piece of glacial ice, found in glacial crevasses and formed by melting or movement of the ice.

volition- a choice made by ones own will

calamitous- causing or involving calamity; disastrous

patina- a film or incrustation, usually green, produced by oxidation on the surface of old bronze and often esteemed as being of ornamental value

hubris- excessive pride or self confidence



Chapter 18:

stymied- a situation or problem presenting such difficulties as to discourage or defeat any attempt to deal with or resolve it.

conspicuous- easy to be seen; noticeable

emetic- causing vomiting, as a medicinal substance.

pharmacological- the science dealing with the preparation, uses, and esp. the effects of drugs.

ptarmigan- any type of grouse in mountainous and colder regions.

moniker- a persons name, a nickname or alias

Epilogue:

confluence- a flowing together of two or more streams

anomalous- not fitting in

percussive- of, pertaining to, or characterized by percussion